Advent: Week 3

Today is the third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete (pronounced Gow De Tey) Sunday, and the theme of joy emerges not as superficial happiness but as the deep assurance of God’s action in a broken world.  Our hearts are drawn to the theme of joy and the recognition of Christ’s supremacy. Gaudete Sunday marks a shift in tone during Advent. The word Gaudete is Latin for "rejoice," it is taken from Philippians 4:4: "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice!". On this day, the theme of repentance during Advent gives way to the joyful anticipation of Christ's coming, symbolized by the lighting of the pink-colored candle on the Advent wreath. This Sunday serves as a reminder that the Lord’s arrival is near, and it encourages believers to find joy while waiting as they reflect on the hope and light that Christ brings into a weary world.
 
The Gospel of John 3:22-36 provides an account that aligns with this theme. This passage captures the transition from John the Baptist’s ministry to the expanding ministry of Jesus, emphasizing the necessity of Jesus’ increase and our corresponding decrease. Through this lens, we can explore the relevance of these verses to our Advent journey and identify practical actions to symbolize their truths in our lives.
 
John 3:22 - 36
 
Understanding the Narrative: Context and Reflection
This passage introduces a significant moment in John the Baptist’s and Jesus’ ministries. John's disciples become concerned as Jesus and His disciples baptize people in the Judean countryside. They observe the growing popularity of Jesus’ ministry and feel a sense of competition. Their concerns reflect a human tendency to focus on personal significance and protecting the ministry, even in matters of spiritual importance.
 
John’s response, however, is remarkable. He reminds his disciples that he is not the Messiah but the one sent ahead to prepare the way. Using the wedding metaphor, he likens himself to the bridegroom's friend, rejoicing in the bridegroom’s success. John’s famous declaration— “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30)—captures his heart of humility and his understanding of his role in God’s redemptive plan. This humility is not resignation but joyful submission to the divine order.
 
Theological Insights: Jesus’ Supremacy
John’s perspective is rooted in the recognition of Jesus’ divine authority. He explains that Jesus, being from above, speaks with authority about heavenly realities. In contrast, John’s ministry is earthly and preparatory. Those who accept Jesus’ testimony acknowledge the truth of God, affirming that Jesus speaks the very words of God (John 3:33-34). The passage culminates in a statement of the Gospel: “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him” (John 3:36).
 
This contrast between earthly and heavenly, preparatory and ultimate, underscores why Jesus must increase. His increase is not merely a matter of prominence but of necessity. Jesus’ role as the Son of God, the giver of eternal life, and the one who fully reveals the Father demands our wholehearted focus and allegiance.
 
Advent Joy
The theme of joy during Advent echoes John the Baptist’s declaration, "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30). True joy is not found in exalting ourselves or striving for personal glory but in making space for Christ to reign in our hearts and lives. When we humbly step aside and allow His presence to grow within us, we experience a joy that is not dependent on circumstances but rooted in the assurance of His love and promises. This self-emptying mirrors the call to prepare the way for the Lord, reminding us that joy flourishes when Christ is at the center, increasing in us as we surrender to His will. In this act of decrease, we find fullness—a joy that overflows as we reflect His light to the world.
 
Practical Applications: Living Out “He Must Increase”
John the Baptist’s declaration challenges us to adopt a Christ-centered perspective in every area of life. Here are some practical ways to embody the truth of “He must increase, but I must decrease” during this Advent season:

1.  Prioritize Christ in Daily Life
   1. Set aside time each day for prayer, Scripture reading, and reflection on Jesus’s life and teachings. Consider focusing on passages that highlight His humility, love, and sacrifice.
   2. Simplify your routines to eliminate distractions that compete for your attention, allowing more space for Christ to take center stage.
2.  Embrace Humility in Relationships
   1. Follow John’s example of rejoicing in the success of others. Celebrate the achievements of those around you without envy or competition.
   2. Seek to serve others selflessly, prioritizing their needs above your own. Whether through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or practical help, let your actions reflect Christ’s love.
3.  Share the Good News
   1. Like John, point others to Jesus through your words and deeds. During Advent, be intentional about sharing your faith with family, friends, and neighbors.
   2. Use this season to invite others to church services or personal gatherings where you can share the message of Christ.
4. Practice Gratitude and Contentment
   • Reflect on your blessings and give thanks to God for His provision. Let gratitude replace any feelings of entitlement or dissatisfaction.
   • Promote contentment by focusing on the eternal significance of Christ’s presence in your life rather than temporary, material concerns.
5. Live with Eternal Perspective
   • Remind yourself daily of your life’s ultimate purpose: to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. Let this perspective shape your decisions, priorities, and interactions.
   • Look forward to Christ’s second coming with hope and anticipation, allowing this future reality to inspire your present faithfulness.

 
The Church’s Mission
John’s words also have implications for the Church. As the body of Christ, we are called to promote Jesus, not ourselves. This requires a collective commitment to:
 

• Christ-Centered Worship: Ensure that every aspect of worship—music, preaching, prayer, and fellowship—points to Jesus and glorifies Him.
• Mission-Oriented Ministry: Focus on making disciples and spreading the Gospel rather than building personal or institutional empires. Evaluate programs and initiatives based on their alignment with Christ’s mission.
• Unity in the Body: Resist the temptation to compete with other churches or ministries. Instead, celebrate the diversity of the body of Christ and work together to advance His kingdom.

 
Conclusion: Preparing the Way
The third week of Advent reminds us that our lives, like John the Baptist’s ministry, are meant to prepare the way for Jesus. This preparation involves humility, a shift in focus from self to Christ, and a commitment to pointing others to Him. John’s declaration— “He must increase, but I must decrease”—is not only a statement of personal surrender and a call to action for all who follow Christ.
 
As the third candle of Advent, the candle of joy, has been lit, let us find joy in Christ’s increase. Let us celebrate His supremacy, rejoice in His coming, and dedicate ourselves anew to magnifying His name in all we do. May our lives echo John’s mission, becoming voices in the wilderness that direct a weary world to the Savior who alone can bring true and lasting peace.
 

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